Bus Driver

Head Start Preschool Bus Driver

Self Help Inc. is currently looking for an experienced Head Start Preschool Bus Driver to join our team.

Self Help, Inc. is a nonprofit Community Action Agency (CAA) created to help families and individuals stabilize and secure their lives through education, strategic assistance, and building opportunities in their communities. We provide a range of services for families and households across Southeastern Massachusetts.

Job Summary

The Head Start Bus Driver is responsible for the safe and efficient transportation of preschool children enrolled in the Head Start program to and from centers. This position requires a commitment to the safety and well-being of young children, adherence to all traffic laws and Head Start policies, and positive communication with children, parents, and staff. The Bus Driver plays a crucial role in ensuring children have reliable access to the educational and developmental opportunities provided by Head Start.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate the Head Start bus in a safe and responsible manner, adhering to all federal, state, and local traffic laws and regulations, as well as Head Start transportation policies and procedures
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the bus/van according to established checklists, ensuring all safety equipment is in proper working order (lights, brakes, tires, mirrors, seat belts, etc.)
• Report any mechanical defects or maintenance needs promptly to the Transportation Specialist
• Maintain a clean and orderly interior of the bus
• Follow assigned routes and schedules, ensuring timely arrival and departure
• Adapt to occasional route changes or delays due to weather, traffic, or other unforeseen circumstances
• Oversees the loading and unloading of children, ensuring they are properly seated and secured in child safety restraints according to program policy and state law with the assistance of the bus monitor
• Supervises children on the bus along with the bus monitor, maintaining a positive and safe environment and addressing any behavioral issues according to Head Start guidelines
• Prioritizes the safety and well-being of all children on the bus at all times
• Follow established procedures for handling medical emergencies, accidents, or other incidents
• Communicate effectively and respectfully with children, parents/guardians, Head Start staff, and the public
• Adhere to all Head Start policies, Massachusetts state transportation regulations, and agency policies and procedures
• Maintain a valid Massachusetts Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B with a school bus certificate and a good driving record
• Maintain current First Aid and CPR certification as required by Head Start and state regulations
• Comply with drug and alcohol testing requirements as mandated by federal and state regulations and Head Start policy

Other Requirements

• Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination, drug and alcohol screening, and background checks (including Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Department of Children and Families (DCF) checks
• Must meet the physical requirements of the position, including the ability to lift and carry young children, bend, stoop, and actively engage with children

Schedule

• Monday-Friday, 35-40 hours weekly
• 41 weeks per year
• Summer's off
• Hourly Rate: $26-$28

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to sit for extended periods while driving
• Ability to secure and release child safety restraints
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively
• Visual acuity to operate a vehicle safely
• Hearing ability to understand conversations and vehicle signals
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with preschool children and their families
• Dependability, punctuality, and a strong commitment to safety

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• You must be at least 21 years of age
• Valid Massachusetts Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B or higher with "S" (School Bus) and "P" (Passenger) endorsements
• Valid Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) School Bus Driver Certificate (or ability to obtain upon hire)
• Current First Aid and CPR certification
• You must have held a valid driver's license for 3 continuous years and possess a clean driving record

Self Help Inc Offers a Comprehensive Employee Benefits Package:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• LTD
• FSA
• 403B
• Vacation Time
• Optional Time
• Sick Time
• Holidays
• Disability Benefits
• Life Insurance
• Direct Deposit

Self Help, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

This job description is not intended, and should not be construed to be, an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job. It is intended, however, to be an accurate reflection of those principal job elements essential for making decisions related to job performance, employee development and compensation. As such, the incumbent may perform other duties and responsibilities as required. Its contents imply no contractual obligation and may be changed by the agency at any time.